Ash Smith has plans. Sort of, anyway. She's just landed her first job since finishing uni. She loves working with the young people at the youth centre, especially the ones who need a bit of extra attention. She's determined to make something of herself, and she knows enough about love to know it's not what she wants right now. Life is too full, too wild, to get tied down. That is, until she finds Java, a beautiful, abandoned dog who steals her heart. Dr Evie Jackson is all about stability. She and her son live a calm, happy life, and although Evie misses companionship, a recent relationship taught her not to trust her instincts when it comes to women. Passing dalliances are all she'll allow so she keeps her heart, and her son, safe. When Ash and Evie meet at the Hound Hotel where Evie volunteers, sparks fly. Ash is a free spirit, something that calls to Evie despite her knowing better, and Ash can't get enough of Evie's strong, sexy fire. But will they answer love's call or will they let it pass them by?